Oban Times Letters to the Editor - 28.11.24

It is fair to say that the community at Aros has a very different and virtually unanimous view on this. Far from being an ecologically friendly, sympathetic provision of extra housing, it is seen as a gross overdevelopment of oversized properties in a highly prominent position sitting across numerous private water supplies which are at risk from sewage seepage from any new septic tanks. It is on a road ill fitted to the proposed extra volume of traffic and for which emergency access is often required by one of Mull’s two ambulances.

The proposed development is being driven by a landowner who is not Mull based with an interest in maximising his profit at the expense of and without consideration of the needs of the local community.

We very much hope the council in their decision will understand the depth of anxiety and concern this proposal has aroused (which are outlined in the multiple objections this planning application has generated) and stand up for the local community against an absentee developer. 
Hugh Andrew and Lesley Graham, Aros Bridge, Isle of Mull.

Contracts for Difference is albatross round our necks

Net Zero Watch has just published alarming data released by the Low Carbon Contracts Company. 

Those of a nervous disposition should look away now. The Beatrice Offshore Windfarm has become the fourth windfarm to have received more than £1 billion in subsidy payments in just its seventh year of operation. The other windfarms which have received more than £1 billion in subsidy are Walney Extension £1.7 billion, Hornsea One £1.6 billion and Dudgeon £1.2 billion. There is more in the pipeline.

This Contract for Difference (CfD) is a dripping roast for the wind industry but an albatross around electricity consumers’ necks.

Whatever happened to the promises of abundant, reliable and cheap electricity for our homes, businesses and industry? The answer, my friend is blowin’ in the wind. 
Clark Cross, Linlithgow.

Give to CHAS this Christmas

Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) has launched its 2024 Christmas Appeal to secure much needed donations that will give the gift of time and precious memories to the families of dying children in Oban.

Three children across Scotland die of incurable conditions each week. The charity is determined to reach every single child who needs its help through the CHAS Christmas Appeal.

Iain McAndrew, Director of Fundraising and Communications at CHAS, said: “We know the number of children living with life-shortening conditions is increasing as is the demand for our services. CHAS is determined to ensure as many families as possible enjoy precious time together filled with happiness and joy this Christmas.

"This would not be possible without our generous supporters who give love and strength to those in the greatest need. This is why we are appealing to the kindness of the Argyll public to donate what they can this Christmas to help us ensure no one has to face the death of their child alone.”

To donate to CHAS’s 2024 Christmas Appeal please visit: www.chas.org.uk/appeal.

Charlene Wilson, CHAS.